Uniforms have been implemented in several Los Angeles public schools since 1994.
School uniforms are not just the territory of private schools. Many public institutions in Los Angeles, California, are also adopting the practice. Reasons vary from eliminating the need for a dress code to emphasizing education and personality rather than clothing based social status. Uniforms also cut down on gang violence as students wear the same color of clothing. Having a ballpark figure to estimate your child's uniform costs can help you save for necessary items and eliminate avoidable expenses.
Girls' Uniform Costs
Prices depend on size. The average price for a girl's basic uniform ensemble is $170. This includes one each of the following: bib-top jumper, four-pleat skirt, skort, Peter Pan blouse, knit shirt with school logo, logo blouse, shorts and pants. This estimate is based on the general cost of sizes 14 to 18. Smaller sizes will cost less, and larger sizes will cost more. Los Angeles is an image-conscious town where celebrities set trends, but some trends are not all-ages appropriate. With bare midriffs and micro-miniskirts everywhere, uniforms can comfort parents who worry that their young ladies are dressing older than their age.
Boys' Uniform Costs
Uniforms usually cost roughly the same or less than regular school clothes.
Boys are not immune to the expectation of looking a certain way in Los Angeles. Uniforms take the pressure off of students to wear the latest, expensive trends. An added bonus for parents of boys, the average cost of boys' uniforms tends to be less because there are fewer variations available. However, you might need to purchase multiples of the same item. The estimate overall price based on youth size range XS to M is $75. This includes dress pants, walking shorts, a knit logo shirt, a dress shirt and a tie.
Outerwear
Your student will also need outerwear. Many schools consider jackets and sweaters part of the uniform. Cardigans, pullovers and vests range from $20 to $25, and jackets can cost around $30. Parents should consider the regular warm weather in Los Angeles when choosing outerwear options for students.
Gym Class Uniform
You'll need to factor in physical education, or PE, clothes for your boy or girl student. These clothes tend to be more gender neutral. The average PE ensemble costs around $50. This includes a logo T-shirt, shorts, a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Many Los Angeles schools take advantage of the temperate weather and have PE outside, but some days can be chilly. Keep this in mind when making the decision to purchase shorts, sweatpants or both.
Cost-Saving Measures
Investigate where you can cut uniform costs.
Save money by learning what the school parameters are for their uniforms and see if you can substitute a dress shirt from a discount store instead of one from the uniform shop. If your students' sweatpants are the same as the school's colors, ask if they can wear those instead. Most Los Angeles schools with uniforms tend to use navy blue, dark green or purple with white or gray as a secondary color. These guidelines can also help when purchasing belts, socks and accessories. Find out if the uniform restrictions include footwear before going shoe shopping. Schools may have certain items they consider mandatory such as a blazer or sweater vest. This is an important factor when budgeting for your student's clothes. Many schools offer programs to help financially disadvantaged families afford uniforms.
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